MNCH2 has established MNCH accountability mechanisms known as SLAMs building on the Evidence for Action (E4A) experience. These mechanisms are built on existing CSO platforms. Their membership has been expanded and includes stakeholders who have a vested interest in improving MNCH and are motivated to take action such as civil society and community groups, health professional bodies and unions, the media, MOH representatives, health services management board and others. Three sub-committees are drawn from the wider accountability mechanism:
- a) Evidence (review of evidence including community scorecards, MDR scorecards. They are responsible for developing MNCH scorecards quarterly/annually
- b) Advocacy (ensure action based on evidence) and
- c) Knowledge management and communications (facilitate transparency and advocacy).
Building an accountability mechanism from those within and beyond the health sector to use evidence in advocacy, accountability and tracking efforts will help amplify the voice and pressure for the State to respond. It will also ensure a long-lasting coalition that will monitor efforts, progress and commitments long after MNCH2 has ended. The SLAM is facilitated by two co-chairs, one from government and the other from CSO’s. They are expected to hold meetings every quarter.
